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“Any policy decisions about cannabis are difficult due to the relative lack of published scientific evidence,” said Ehlinger. “However, there is increasing evidence for potential benefits of medical cannabis for those with severe autism and obstructive sleep apnea.”

The state health department takes public input each year on conditions that might be added as qualifiers to receive medical marijuana. A citizens' review panel and Health Department staff consider each condition.

Some of the rejected suggestions this year were anxiety, dementia and Parkinson's disease.

The state will have 13 qualifying conditions when people with autism and apnea become eligible next July. They are: